Blue Spark: The Innovation Sandbox
What is Blue Spark?
We hear from entrepreneurs and small companies who often struggle with access to test and adopt new technologies.
Blue Spark is the solution.
Blue Spark provides a makers space where entrepreneurs and small companies can:
- Test and adopt new technologies
- Collaborate with GVSU students and faculty
- Gain access to systems and technology
Housed in the Shape Corp. Innovation Design Center, Blue Spark will be the place where learning, invention, and community prosperity intersect, a space where curiosity is cultivated, collaboration is expected, and ideas become tangible benefits for the world.
The problems of today and tomorrow will be solved by those who have both the skills and the thinking to apply their knowledge in a collaborative environment. Blue Spark will be home to that work and will help create a steady pipeline of startups, licensable technologies, and corporate pilot projects.
Together we can build Michigan's future!
Learn more about the story behind Blue Spark!
USAMR has moved in to Blue Spark!
October 13, 2026
One month after the official launch during Tech Week Grand Rapids, a local supplier is now part of Blue Spark. USAMR, a Grand Rapids-based autonomous mobile robot (AMR) and warehouse automation supplier, has officially moved in to Blue Spark.
Blue Spark is a space in which industry partners, students, and faculty can collaborate to bring ideas to life. As part of Blue Spark, USAMR aims to show that accessible, high-quality robotics can come from the United States, and specifically West Michigan, with the help of PCE students and faculty. PCE students will get to experience real-world robotics work as they work alongside USAMR to create, innovate, and prototype AMRs.
Blue Spark launches during Tech Week Grand Rapids
September 17, 2026
Blue Spark is a place where entrepreneurs will partner with engineering faculty and students to turn ideas into prototypes. On Wednesday, September 16, the Padnos College of Engineering celebrated the launch of Blue Spark during Tech Week Grand Rapids by hosting "Developing the Next Wave of Engineers."
Guests learned about the philosophy of Blue Spark, heard from entrepreneurs currently working with the Padnos College of Engineering, and toured the equipment and facilities housed in the Shape Corp. Innovation Design Center.
See more about Blue Spark in this GV Next story on the launch.
Contact Us
If you'd like to learn more about how Blue Spark can provide support for your work, contact us at [email protected].